Staff Report
Placer County is launching a podcast that brings the captivating model of story-based podcasts like “Serial” to the local level, kicking it off with an in depth look at the four-day rescue effort of lost hiker Cody Michael last May. When Rocklin-based hiker, Cody Michael, lost himself in the most rugged part of Placer County for four days, he made international headlines. The first episode of Placer County’s “The Placer Life” will use the first hand accounts of Michael, his father, and Sgt. Ty Conners of the Placer County Sheriff’s Office to share the most in depth look yet at Michael’s harrowing story and the tremendous lengths undertaken to find him.
“The Placer Life” will focus on fresh topics with each episode, sharing gripping, touching, humorous or interesting stories of the amazing people and places of Placer County – to help improve awareness of county programs, services and issues, as well as to help build a sense of community and appreciation of this special place.
In addition to Michael’s story in the first episode, a fascinating account of the World War II homefront war effort, featuring original Rosie the Riveter and long-time Placer resident Betty Samson, is also available on iTunes and Google Play stores, through the Stitcher and TuneIn apps, and on Soundcloud.
The new podcast series is an effort by Placer County’s Communications and Public Affairs Office to maintain a proactive and engaging dialogue with its residents using modern and relevant mediums. A recent Edison Research study indicates that 21 percent of Americans regularly listen to podcasts today, the same percentage that uses Twitter. Listeners with questions or ideas for stories can reach us at piostaff@placer.ca.gov or 530-886-4646.
